How to Pick Out a Home Air Compressor

Air compressors can be used to fill up pool rafts.

Home air compressors can be used to complete a variety of different tasks, such as operating an air nailer, spraying paint or sandblasting, even inflating things like tires and pool toys. The job you plan to complete with your home air compressor will make a difference in the one you pick. The right air compressor can be a real asset when completing home improvement projects and everyday tasks, but the wrong air compressor will not be very useful to you.

Instructions

1. Figure out what types of projects you will likely be using the air compressor for. The manufacturers of the different air compressors will specify recommended activities to make picking the right air compressor easier.

2. Look for home air compressors that use the most convenient power source. Electric air compressors can be easier to operate but they're limited by the length of the cord and the availability of an outlet. Gas-powered air compressors require more maintenance and have gas emissions, but they can operate virtually anywhere.

3. Pay attention to how powerful the home air compressors are that you're considering. "Power" is measured by a few factors. A few power rating examples include pounds per square inch, cubic feet per minute of air volume and horsepower. The tougher the job, the higher these ratings should be on the air compressor you pick. For example, a job like airbrush painting or inflating tires would not require a very powerful air compressor. However, more heavy duty jobs like sandblasting or spray painting require an air compressor with higher power ratings, such as 150 pounds per square inch, 10 cubic feet per minute of air volume and 6.5 horsepower.

4. Find home air compressor options that offer the capacity you need to complete your job. This is dependent on the tank size, which can range from one gallon to dozens of gallons. For projects that will take several hours or require constant air flow for long periods of time, look for air compressors with large tanks. Small jobs, such as using your air compressor with a nail gun, can have tanks of just a few gallons.

References

• Repair Home: Tools and Materials
• Air Compressor Buyer Guide.org: Air Compressor